Gary Schwegler

GARY LEE SCHWEGLER

Marion

Gary Lee Schwegler, 70, of West Des Moines, formerly of Marion, passed away suddenly on May 16, 2017, at Mercy West Hospital in West Des Moines. Gary's final generous act of kindness was to give the gift of life through organ and tissue donation. A celebration of life will be held Saturday, May 20, from noon until 4 p.m., with a time of sharing at 2 p.m. in the Pioneer Room at Stoney Creek Hotel and Conference Center, 5291 Stoney Creek Ct., Johnston. All friends and family are welcome to come and gather to share happy memories of Gary.

The son of Margaret and Martin Schwegler, Gary was born June 3, 1946, in Davenport. He attended Prairie High School and the University of Iowa. On July 29, 1972, he was united in marriage to Jean Ford. They were blessed with two children, John and Elizabeth. Gary served in the military as a Russian linguist and spent his career as a software designer. He "graduated" from work in 2009 and spent his retired years golfing, boating, cheering on the Hawkeyes and enjoying his grandchildren. He loved life and lived his to the fullest. His generosity and kind heart will be missed by his many friends and family.

Gary is survived by his wife, Jean, of West Des Moines; two children, John (Annon) Schwegler and Elizabeth (James) Stephenson; seven grandchildren, Brynnlee, Danslee and Huxlee Schwegler and Cole, Osden, Gilliam and Eden Stephenson; his sister, Betty (Larry) McNamara; his brother, John (Patty) Schwegler; and a sister-in-law, Ann Gilbertson.

Memorials may be made to the family, c/o Jean Schwegler, 4900 Cedar Dr., West Des Moines, IA 50266, and will be directed to Heifer Project International.